Deputy Governor Oduol, former MP Gumbo, and Ugenya’s Ochieng’ lead early race as succession politics heat up
Governor James Orengo’s announcement that he will seek the presidency in 2027 has set off a political scramble in Siaya County, with multiple heavyweights jockeying to succeed him as the county boss.
The declaration has effectively opened the floodgates for succession politics, with both allies and opponents of the governor positioning themselves for a bruising contest in the ODM stronghold.
The Front-runners
Three politicians have already launched active campaigns for the coveted seat.
Deputy Governor William Oduol is banking on his proximity to power, actively mobilizing voters across the county to succeed his boss. His campaign emphasizes continuity and insider knowledge of county operations.
Former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo, who has previously contested the governorship, has re-entered the race with renewed vigor. Now firmly aligned with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Gumbo has been critical of what he terms Orengo’s distraction from local governance, arguing that the governor’s national ambitions have come at the expense of county development.
Ugenya MP David Ochieng’ has also thrown his hat in the ring, officially declaring his interest in the top county job.
The Undeclared Contenders
Several other political heavyweights are being closely watched, though they have yet to make formal announcements.
Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has been dropping strong hints about a return to local politics, with residents urging him to clarify whether he intends to run for MP or governor. Tuju’s growing closeness to Governor Orengo has not gone unnoticed, with analysts viewing it as a strategic alliance for the next elections.
Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda remains a key figure in the succession race, while Siaya County Assembly Speaker George Okode is also being mentioned as a potential candidate.
Orengo’s presidential ambitions come amid significant political realignment in the larger Luo Nyanza region. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi recently ruled himself out of the local race, choosing instead to focus on his national responsibilities.
The governor is reportedly building a power center outside ODM, particularly his warming relationship with Tuju, seen as a counter to ODM leader Senator Oburu Oginga, who is perceived to favor Gumbo’s candidacy.
